Thanks for all of the advice, guys. :)
Unfortunately, I am currently a MA resident and am in no position to move out of state, so certain models of handguns are unavailable:
- Springfields (all)
- Kahrs (all)
- Sig (some trigger models)
Even though Kahr lists many dealers in MA, none of them can sell them, which sucks, because I think a Kahr P9 would have been perfect for me.
Are there any other 9mm pistols that have a full grip that might be worthwhile? I really like the idea of a relatively-short barreled, single-stack 9mm pistol that has a full grip.
Quote:
Originally Posted by ppkheat
Welcome to the forum and it looks like you've been doing your homework. 
A few comments:
PPK/S- I have one and it has never failed in any manner, so far total reliability. IMHO the .380 is a marginal defense cartridge, though an appropriate caliber for a BUG/pocket pistol; and shot placement is always important regardless of caliber. My PPK is a nice gun, it is pretty thin, but it is pretty heavy for its size. I rarely CC mine, there are better choices out there. Right now I CC a G-27 or 1911, and sometimes my LCP, it just depends? I'd suggest you take a close look at Walther PPS, they are thin and come in 9mm or .40. Some may say they are a bit ugly, but I'm willing to buy one and carry it.
Sig P239- I think they are great CCW and I intend to get one in DAK SAS, I just haven't decided on 9 mm or .40? At least I'm using that excuse to delay parting with my $$$.
S&W 642- As you already know a great CCW revolver.
1911's- There are a lot of great one's to choose from and typically a favored choice by lot's of folks for a CCW. Personally I have a Colt Defender and it has functioned perfectly. If you choose a 1911, you'll need to thoroughly train and practice so you'll function instinctively with this platform. It is a big caliber, and as the saying goes no one has ever wished for a smaller gun during a gunfight.
I think that you have made some good choices, but you're at the point where it typically becomes a personal decision. |
What do you mean by the .380 being a "marginal defense cartridge"?
Quote:
Originally Posted by jhfox462
Welcome to the forum!
What part of MA are you from? I'm impressed you got a LTC there. When I lived there the PD said I didnt need one and wouldnt give it to me. Now, no one gets to tell me what I do and do not need or can and cannot have. Kind of sucks that you have to choose off of an approved list of firearms in MA.
I have on occasion carried a .380. The ammo is pretty expensive and if you are not sure you can afford to practice with it then I would say don't get the ppk.
I would give a vote for the sig or a single stack 9mm 1911 if you are unsure about the .45. In all honesty, once you get used to recoil, the difference between shooting a .45 and 9mm isn't all that much.
|
I lived in a good town when I applied. :)
Quote:
Originally Posted by rstickle
First, welcome!
I lived in a town that didn't mind people defending themselves when I applied (check for "green" towns here: Guide to gun rights in your Massachusetts town - Northeastshooters.com).
A lot of folks (me included) use the SIG 239, and one of the most popular modifications is a set of Hogue grips, if it still seems too short for your hand get a couple of 10 round mags for it.
It is up in weight, not much to say there.
9mm os good, you also might want to look at the 239 in 40 S&W, that is also popular.
All in all the 239 is a very reliable and accurate weapon! |
How do the Hogue grips change the grip size?